Name: Homemade Pumpkin Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 (15-oz) can 100% pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)

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Why Make This Recipe

Making homemade pumpkin bread is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of the fall season. This recipe brings together the warm spices and rich flavor of pumpkin, creating a delicious treat that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. It’s easy to make and fills your home with an inviting aroma that is difficult to resist.

How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Bread

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 (15-oz) can 100% pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F and position the rack in the middle. Grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans with butter and dust them with flour or use baking spray with flour.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this mixture aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until just combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the pumpkin until everything is combined (it may look curdled; that’s normal).
Add the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
Bake for 65–75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Bread

Homemade pumpkin bread is delightful on its own. You can slice it and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, serve it with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It also pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

How to Store Homemade Pumpkin Bread

To store your pumpkin bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it well and use it within 3 months for the best flavor.

Tips to Make Homemade Pumpkin Bread

Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Use freshly grated spices if possible for a stronger flavor.
Keep an eye on your bread while it bakes; oven times may vary.
Let the bread cool completely before wrapping to avoid moisture buildup.

Variation

You can add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the batter for a fun twist. Just fold them in gently before baking.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it before adding to the recipe.

Can I make pumpkin bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How can I tell when my pumpkin bread is done?
Your pumpkin bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.